Coming Back to the Body
Today I was reminded that August often carries a quiet tension. You know, those last bits of summer, soaking in as much fun and relaxation as possible. It’s the beginning of that pull toward routine, the sense that soon enough we’ll be putting up Fall decor and seeing Christmas decorations on sale. It's easy to start living entirely in your head: planning, anticipating, replaying. Many of us are rushing to get the kids back to school, or maybe you’re prepping to go back to work — and those of us who work year-round are preparing for the shift into Fall.
So, before we move too fast. I invite you to slow down for a moment and return to your body.
Not to fix anything or analyze. Just to notice and honor.
A Short Reflection
Take a moment, wherever you are.
Feel the weight of your body against whatever is supporting you — a chair, the floor, the ground beneath your feet. Let your shoulders soften, even slightly. Take one breath that's a little slower than the one before it.
Ask yourself gently: What does my body already know that my mind hasn't caught up to yet?
You don't need an answer. Just the noticing is enough.
A Gentle Practice
If you have two minutes today, try this:
Take a moment to notice how you are feeling. Maybe you notice tension, looseness, pain, or ease, or an emotional layer to the physical - sadness, anger, anxiety, or joy, excitement, calm. Note on a scale of 0-10 how intense this feels today: good, bad, or ugly.
Sit, lie, or stand comfortably.
If it feels right, place one hand on your chest, one on your belly.
Breathe in and out naturally, and imagine your breath going in and out of your heartspace.
You may notice your breath slow and deepen, but it isn’t required and doesn’t need to be forced. Just let whatever happens happen.
Repeat for a few breaths; notice whatever you notice. No judgment needed.
When you feel ready to end, check back in: how are you feeling now? Has anything changed?
We'll share a new theme and reflection each month. If this resonated with you and you're curious about somatic or trauma-informed therapy, we'd love to connect.